2021 INFINITI QX50 vs 2022 Jeep Wrangler

In a crowded and competitive luxury compact crossover segment, the 2021 INFINITI QX50 stood out with its distinctive design and engineering. The large honeycomb grille, curved hood with athletic bulges, and a unique chrome strip at the rear gave it a sporty and characterful appearance. The panoramic moonroof added an airy feel to the cabin, although thick B-pillars and a short rear window slightly hampered visibility. The interior featured soft-touch materials, aluminum trim accents, and a leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel, making it a comfortable and stylish ride.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, particularly the High Tide special edition, offered a rugged and adventurous look. The raised suspension, 35-inch BF Goodrich tires, and body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop made it stand out. The interior was basic but functional, with durable cloth upholstery and plastic and rubber materials. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring some acclimation. Visibility was a mixed bag, with excellent views in some areas and compromised views in others. The Wrangler's unique character and capabilities made it a memorable and immersive driving experience.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), producing 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The VC-Turbo engine constantly adjusted the compression ratio for a balance of power and efficiency. The engine operated smoothly and quietly, and the CVT provided a familiar sensory experience with simulated shift points. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The drive mode selector offered four modes: Standard, Sport, Eco, and Personal, with Sport mode providing the most responsive and engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide came with a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was great for slippery conditions. The Wrangler's fuel economy was lower than expected, averaging 16.8 mpg over a week of driving. The driving experience was unique and immersive, with a rough-and-tumble feel and a thirst for fuel. The Wrangler's capabilities made it ideal for off-roading and exploring, but it required frequent stops at the gas station and had a loud and bumpy ride.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 offered a spacious interior with plenty of hip, shoulder, and headroom, even with the panoramic moonroof. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed 38.7 inches of legroom, and the sliding second-row seats allowed for flexible cargo space. The cargo area provided 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats, expanding to 64.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The QX50 also featured ample cupholders, storage bins, and charging options, making it a practical and accommodating vehicle.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter or less-limber individuals. The seats were comfortable, and the cloth upholstery was durable. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring some adjustment. Visibility was mixed, with excellent views in some areas and compromised views in others. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry and exit difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. The cargo area offered 31.7 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the seat folded. Storage options were limited, with small trays and deep compartments.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured the InTouch infotainment system with dual display screens, voice recognition, and a suite of connected services. Pairing a smartphone via Bluetooth was easy, and Apple CarPlay integration worked seamlessly. The 16-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system delivered crisp and powerful sound. The Around View Monitor with front and rear sonar and moving-object detection made parking easier. ProPilot Assist, an advanced driving assistance system, was standard on all but the base trim, providing adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide had a relatively basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio, connected services, and a premium sound system, but the basic setup met most needs. The Wrangler also featured remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot warning, predictive forward-collision warning, forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, rear automatic braking, and more. The QX50 received high ratings from the IIHS and a four-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The safety systems worked effectively, providing gentle nudges and warnings when needed.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Wrangler's safety ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. The Wrangler's safety features were optional rather than standard, and its crash-test ratings suggested it required extra care when driving.